KYOTO, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (TOKYO:6981) (ISIN:JP3914400001)
(hereinafter "Murata") has developed the world’s first AMR sensor with
3D sensing capabilities supporting 360-degree magnetic field detection
with uniform sensitivity in all directions. Magnetic field detection in
three-dimensional space previously required the use of multiple magnetic
sensors in combination, but the new sensor makes 3D magnetic field
detection possible using a single device.

An anisotropic magneto-resistance (AMR) sensor is a type of magnetic
sensor that utilizes a property such that the magnetic resistance value
changes according to the strength of a magnetic field in a specific
direction. These kinds of sensors are mainly used in applications such
as mobile phones and notebook PCs, open/close detection in refrigerators
and doors, and rotation detection in smart meters.In response to
feedback from customers indicating a need for AMR sensors with 3D
sensing capabilities, Murata embarked in 2013 on the development of such
devices, utilizing magnetic sensing technology and expertise acquired
from NEC Corporation. By combining AMR element design technology and
circuit design technology from NEC and Murata, this effort has resulted
in the successful development of a sensor capable of 360-degree magnetic
field detection with uniform sensitivity in all directions. Previous
magnetic sensors had directional sensitivity characteristics that made
them unsuitable for omnidirectional magnetic field detection, requiring
three to six sensors for 3D sensing applications. The new sensor makes
it possible to accomplish detection with a single device, thereby
enabling customers to design products that are more compact and lower in
cost.

[Features]1. Capable of omnidirectional magnetic field
detection over 360 degrees in parallel with the chip surface.

2. Compact PackageThe compact package measuring only 1.45 × 1.45 ×
0.55 mm is achieved by using a single element for omnidirectional
detection.

[Production]Sample shipments are scheduled to start in
February 2014.Mass production is scheduled to start in April 2014
at the Yamanashi Plant of Kanazawa Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
(500,000 units per month).

[Sample Price]50 yen

Murata in BriefMurata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. is a
worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and sale of ceramic-based
passive electronic components & solutions, communication modules and
power supply modules. With annual revenues of ¥681 billion (~$6.8B USD),
Murata is committed to the development of advanced electronic materials
and leading edge, multi-functional, high-density modules. The company
has employees and manufacturing facilities throughout the world. For
more information, visit Murata's website at http://www.murata.com/